The Drinks Retailing Awards 2014 are now open for entries, allowing independents, specialists, convenience stores and major multiples from across the UK the chance to win coveted trophies and recognition among the leading lights of our dynamic industry.

Support for Majestic’s model among City investors remains as strong as ever despite it posting a moderate profit rise dampened by it’s decision to stop supplying wholesale businesses, according to its chief executive.

The president of Europe-wide organisation Wine in Moderation has praised the UK trade for its proactive drive to combat abusive drinking and urged the British government not to punish responsible drinkers with prohibitionist measures.

Traitor or patriot? Whistleblower or scoundrel? Depending on your point of view, Edward Snowden, the man behind the recent revelations about the National Security Agency’s surveillance techniques, is either a hero or a villain. Whatever you think of the guy – not least the fact that he has disclosed the contents of top-secret documents – you have to admire his courage. “I do not expect to see home again,” he has admitted from his hotel room in Hong Kong.

Former Thierry's director Matthew Dickinson claims to have submitted documents to accountants investigating the conduct of its management that show "no apparent evidence of wrongdoing" during his 10-year career with the firm.